The night air of Verdan was sharp and cold, but Elias Ward barely felt it.
He walked down the marble steps of Ariston Manor, the echo of cruel laughter still ringing in his ears.
His old phone buzzed again.
The same number ending in 888888 flashed on the screen.
> "Sir, Ross Industries has entered crisis mode. Your identity as principal shareholder remains hidden. The board is awaiting your directive."
Elias stopped in his tracks.
For three years, he had buried that name — Ward.
Before his exile, he had been the rightful heir to one of Verdan's most powerful families.
Until betrayal struck.
He had been framed for embezzling company funds, stripped of his inheritance, and cast out with nothing but shame.
His parents were forced abroad; his name erased from the family ledgers.
When the late Lady Ariston took pity on him and arranged his marriage to Serena, he accepted quietly — believing his life of power was over.
Yet now… Ross Industries, the same family that mocked him that very night, was begging for his return.
Another message followed:
> "Sir, three years ago you invested in the Aurion Gold Mine through the Shadow Trust. The mine has struck a massive gold vein. The value has multiplied more than a hundredfold."
Elias's breath caught.
That was the same investment the Ward Family had accused him of stealing funds for — the reason they destroyed him.
Now, it turned out to be one of the richest discoveries in Verdan's history.
He laughed quietly into the cold night.
"So… the fool they cast out is now the key to their survival."
From his pocket, he drew a black obsidian card etched with a golden phoenix.
The Celestial Card — the highest access token of the Ward Consortium, recognized across continents.
He hadn't touched it in three years.
He dialed the number engraved on the back.
A calm, polished voice answered instantly.
> "Good evening, Mr. Ward. It's an honor to hear from you again. How may we serve you?"
Elias's tone was steady. "Check my account balance."
> "Please hold a moment…"
Then, a faint gasp.
"Sir, your account has triggered a high-security lock. The balance exceeds our standard threshold. You will need to verify your identity in person at the Central Vault."
Elias smiled faintly. "So it's that much, is it? Very well. Prepare for my arrival."
> "Understood, sir."
He ended the call and looked up at the stars above Verdan.
Let them laugh now, he thought. Soon, they'll kneel.
---
The next morning, the Ariston residence was bright with chatter.
In the living room, Serena sat with her two closest friends — Lyra Vale, graceful and self-assured, and Nina Cross, cheerful and warm-hearted.
Their teacups sat untouched on the glass table.
"Serena, is it true your company's in trouble?" Nina asked softly.
Serena sighed, rubbing her temples. "Yes. Ariston Design House lost a major investor last week. We need five million dollars immediately or we'll have to shut down."
Lyra frowned. "That's a fortune, even for your family. I doubt your grandfather will help."
Serena exhaled. "I'll find a way."
At that moment, Elias entered quietly through the side door, still in his worn jacket.
All three women turned toward him.
Lyra rolled her eyes. "Perfect timing — the errand boy arrives."
Serena gave him a sharp look. "Elias, we're having an important conversation. Go finish the laundry — and use warm water this time."
He opened his mouth, but his phone buzzed again.
A call — from the Celestial Bank.
> "Mr. Ward, your account has been confirmed active," the voice said. "We request your presence at our Verdan headquarters to finalize reactivation. Would you like a private escort?"
"Fine," he said quietly, hanging up.
Nina laughed lightly. "Another delivery call, Elias?"
He met Serena's eyes. "You said you need five million dollars. Let me handle it."
Lyra smirked. "Five million dollars? You? Even if you saved every coin Serena gives you, you wouldn't have five hundred."
Elias's voice was calm. "What if I can?"
Lyra leaned back, amused. "If you can pull out five million today, I'll kneel and call you Father."
He gave a faint smile. "Then remember your words."
Serena waved him off. "Enough, Elias. Stop embarrassing yourself."
He nodded slightly. "As you wish."
---
That night, Elias lay awake in the small servant's study, staring at the ceiling.
The black card rested on the table beside him, its golden phoenix catching the lamplight.
Three years of humiliation, he thought. Three years of silence.
But not anymore.
Tomorrow, the forgotten heir of the Wards would rise again.